This 1955 Chevrolet
Delray project is the fruition of my vision to create a truly versatile
automobile, which is at home whether entered into a car show or
just cruising down the road. My singular goal was to remain committed
to not over-building the car into a non-usable, show only, trailer
queen. This car must be and will be driven to be fully enjoyed.

The Delray was
purchased from the proverbial “little old lady” who was the second
owner, having owned the car since 1960. Although the original owner’s
manual and a map from 1995 found in the glove box were in great
shape, the body was far from perfect, and the original GM parts
were ready to be retired. As a result, my decision was easy – this
car needed to become a hot rod.

From the ZZ 502 engine
to the many hours spent massaging the body into laser-straight condition,
only top quality parts and highest quality craftsmanship were incorporated
into this two-year endeavor. Whenever possible, the original parts
were polished, refurbished, sanded, painted and generally worked
over in order to maintain the stock portion of this car. The internet,
e-bay, wrecking yards, swap meets and parts companies were searched
for NOS parts to replace those original items which could not be
brought back to pristine condition. Aside from the two-tone DuPont
Super Jet Black and GM Black Mica paint, every effort was made to
retain a stock outward appearance.

The drivetrain
is the primary exception to the rule of keeping things “stock.”
Bowing to the need for "more power," I turned to General
Motors Performance Parts for a fuel-injected Ram Jet ZZ502. A 4L80e
transmission and Moser rear end with 3.55 gears help put the power
to the ground.

The interior was fashioned
to be a reflection of the original Delray design. Black and white
leather incorporating superimposed Delray squares and large white
stitching will be telling to informed 1955 Chevy aficionados. The
original interior stainless trim was polished and inset into the
leather. Daytona Weave carpet rounds out the “stock” appearance.

Attention to interior
detail other than upholstery was also a part of this endeavor. The
stock speedometer was reworked, and now sports a 140 mph speed limit,
black letters on a white background, and two added gauges to replace
stock warning lights. Seams in the dash, along with the ashtray
and radio slot, were filled. The original steering wheel was reduced
to 15 inches in diameter, and the horn ring was removed. The knobs
on the turn signal, shift and tilt levers were machined to match
the original knobs for the lights and windshield wipers.